Why the MX5 is Touted as the Best Roadster Ever Built – and Why it’s Great for First-Time Owners

The history of the Mazda MX5 is quite interesting, to say the least. This is not only true for true MX5 fans – it’s true for anyone who appreciates the sleekness and power of a real roadster. If you’re thinking of buying an MX5 for your own pleasure, especially if it’s your first sports car, then it pays to know what you can about this amazing machine – and why it’s still a popular choice for car enthusiasts. Here’s why the MX5 is touted as the best roadster ever built and why it’s great for first-time owners.

The simple facts

The Mazda MX5’s top speed is between 185 to 201 kilometres per hour, and this speed is more than enough for many sports car fanatics. Many people have stated that the Mazda MX5 is the best roadster that has ever been built, not only because of its features and capabilities, but also because of its price and affordability. After all, compared to other roadsters today, the Mazda MX5 is still one of the most affordable.

Where the idea for the MX5 first began

Did you know that the concept for the first MX5 began way back in the 1980s, with teams in California and Japan collaborating with each other? But the actual inspiration for the first MX5 was the Lotus Elan, famous for its twin-cam, 1600cc engine from Ford as well as its independent all-round suspension and its frame. The team from Mazda was able to improve the car’s dimensions, allowing any average westerner to drive the car in comfort. One difference between the original MX5 and the Lotus Elan, however, was the body – the Mazda car was made from steel, whilst the Lotus Elan was known for its body made from fibreglass. The best – and most recognisable – feature which remained was the pop up headlights.

The first generation

The original Mazda MX5 was launched in 1990, and it featured a 116-bhp motor, 1.6-litres, and a transmission with five speeds. It also had special rack and pinion steering, disc brakes, an independent suspension, and a top that you could lower or raise with just one hand. The first models came in just three colours – red, blue, or white – and you could also opt to have a hardtop if you preferred. In Japan, the first MX5 was called the Eunos, but it was known alternately in Europe as the MX5. One amazing fact about this first model was its weight – it had a weight of only 975 kilos.

In the ‘old’ days, the first models were quite simple – they had no air conditioning, electric windows, or power steering. But today, you can, of course, benefit from more advanced models with even more advanced features. When buying one, however, make it a point to source only from reputable, specialist suppliers, who can give you additional service plus MX5 parts at reasonable prices.